Obese endometrial cancer survivors’ perceptions of weight loss strategies and characteristics that may influence participation in behavioral interventions

We aimed to evaluate obese endometrial cancer (EC) survivors' perceptions of weight loss barriers and previously attempted weight loss methods and to identify characteristics that predicted willingness to enroll in a behavioral intervention trial. We administered a 27-question baseline survey at an academic institution to EC survivors with body mass index ≥ 30 kg/m(2). Survivors were asked about their lifestyles, previous weight loss attempts, perceived barriers, and were offered enrollment into an intervention trial. Data was analyzed using Fisher’s Exact, Kruskal-Wallis, and univariate and multivariate regressions. 155 of 358 (43%) eligible obese EC survivors were surveyed. Nearly all (n = 148, 96%) had considered losing weight, and 77% (n = 120) had tried two or more strategies. Few had undergone bariatric surgery (n = 5, 3%), psychologic counseling (n = 2, 1%), or met with physical therapists (n = 9, 6%). Lower income was associated with difficulty in accessing interventions. Survivors commented that negative self-perceptions and difficulties with follow-through were barriers to weight loss, and fear of complications and self-perceived lack of qualification were deterrents to bariatric surgery. 80 (52%) of those surveyed enrolled in the trial. In a multivariate model, adjusting for race and stage, survivors without recurrence were 4.3 times more likely to enroll than those with recurrence. Most obese EC survivors have tried multiple strategies to lose weight, but remain interested in weight loss interventions, especially women who have never experienced recurrence. Providers should encourage weight loss interventions early, at the time of initial diagnosis, and promote underutilized strategies such as psychological counseling, physical therapy, and bariatric surgery.